Scam in SerbiaBuses and trains
Extra charge for a Soko upper-deck seat in Serbia
How it works
A ticket seller may charge extra for sitting on the upper deck of a Soko train. Check whether you want this option before paying. An extra charge alone does not establish fraud.
Warning signs
- The seller adds an upper-deck charge you did not request.
- The total includes an unexplained seating supplement.
How to avoid it
- Check the ticket price in the SrbijaVoz app.
- Ask whether the quoted total includes an upper-deck supplement.
- Decline the option if you do not want it and check the ticket before paying.
If it happens to you
Ask the seller to explain the charge and correct any unwanted option before the ticket is issued. Keep the ticket and receipt if you need to raise a complaint.
- Move somewhere safe. Avoid arguing with an aggressive driver, tout or stranger. Call police on 192 if you are threatened.
- Check what is missing or what you were charged. Freeze affected cards and contact your card issuer promptly.
- Save receipts, booking records, messages and screenshots. Write down the time, place and what happened. Record vehicle details if relevant.
- Report theft, threats or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number.
- For a Belgrade taxi dispute, contact the taxi operator and city inspection. Also contact airport inspection if the ride involved the airport.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen. Notify your insurer and keep copies of reports and expenses.
Questions
What is the extra charge for a Soko upper-deck seat scam in Serbia?
A ticket seller may charge extra for sitting on the upper deck of a Soko train. Check whether you want this option before paying. An extra charge alone does not establish fraud.
How can I spot it early?
The seller adds an upper-deck charge you did not request. The total includes an unexplained seating supplement.
How do I avoid extra charge for a Soko upper-deck seat in Serbia?
Check the ticket price in the SrbijaVoz app. Ask whether the quoted total includes an upper-deck supplement. Decline the option if you do not want it and check the ticket before paying.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask the seller to explain the charge and correct any unwanted option before the ticket is issued. Keep the ticket and receipt if you need to raise a complaint.
Where in Serbia does this happen?
Ticket sales for Soko trains between Belgrade and Novi Sad. It has been reported in Belgrade, Novi Sad.
How much can it cost me?
An extra RSD120.
How common is this scam in Serbia?
Occasional. Serbia is generally safe for visitors. Taxi scams are common in Belgrade, and unregulated taxis can overcharge in Novi Sad too. Watch for pickpockets in crowds and on public transport, and be cautious around transport touts.
Are there similar scams in Serbia?
Yes: supposed luggage porters at bus arrivals.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 192 for immediate police help. Report theft or suspected fraud at a police station and ask for a report or reference number. Taxi operator: for a disputed Belgrade fare, call the driver's taxi association and ask it to check the price for the distance travelled. Provide the booking and vehicle details. Belgrade city inspection: call +381 11 3227-000. Keep the roof-sign number, licence plate and a signed bill showing the date, time, route and price. Belgrade airport inspection: for taxi incidents on journeys to or from the airport, call +381 11 2097-373 or email taxi@beg.aero. Card issuer: use your banking app or your issuer's official contact number to freeze a card and report unauthorised charges. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact in your policy. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Serbia?
Police: 192, Fire: 193, Ambulance: 194.
Reviewed by @snuck